Fractions¶
What Are Fractions?¶
A fraction represents a part of a whole. It has two parts:
- Numerator — the top number (how many parts you have)
- Denominator — the bottom number (how many parts make a whole)
\[\frac{\text{numerator}}{\text{denominator}}\]
In nursing, fractions appear in medication labels, dosage calculations, and unit conversions.
Simplifying Fractions¶
Divide both numerator and denominator by their greatest common factor.
\[\frac{6}{8} = \frac{6 \div 2}{8 \div 2} = \frac{3}{4}\]
Multiplying Fractions¶
Multiply numerators together and denominators together.
\[\frac{1}{2} \times \frac{3}{4} = \frac{1 \times 3}{2 \times 4} = \frac{3}{8}\]
Dividing Fractions¶
Flip the second fraction and multiply.
\[\frac{1}{2} \div \frac{1}{4} = \frac{1}{2} \times \frac{4}{1} = \frac{4}{2} = 2\]
Adding and Subtracting Fractions¶
Fractions must have a common denominator first.
\[\frac{1}{4} + \frac{2}{4} = \frac{3}{4}\]
If denominators differ, find the least common denominator:
\[\frac{1}{4} + \frac{1}{2} = \frac{1}{4} + \frac{2}{4} = \frac{3}{4}\]
Clinical Application¶
Real World Context
Medication tablets are often scored for splitting. Understanding fractions helps you confidently calculate partial tablet doses.
**Exampl